Links to the latest news in the world of pharmacy with a focus on items most relevant to Canadian pharmacists or others that are interested in Canadian pharmacies. This includes news about Canadian pharmacy seen in the mainstream media on topics such as new drug information and the international pharmacy industry.

Wednesday, August 06, 2008

Codeine-laden painkillers stay on sale

Note: Nurofen Plus is a combination of ibuprofen and codeine.

From News.com.au:Heavy-duty painkillers containing codeine will remain available over the counter but pack sizes could be reduced to stop drug abuse, a government committee has ruled.

Doctors and pharmacists have welcomed a decision not to reclassify codeine combination medicines such as Nurofen Plus as prescription-only.

The drug class was under investigation due to mounting claims of serious medical complications among addicted Australians, with one online forum suggesting 7000 people were hooked.

A report released last month linked high use to serious side-effects, like perforated stomach ulcers and renal failure, and death. ...more

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